Attachment Mechanisms and Methods for an Absorbent Cover

ABSTRACT

A system includes an exercise mat and an absorbent cover for the exercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from a liquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms affixed to the absorbent cover engage with attachment mechanisms affixed to the exercise mat to attach the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present disclosure is a non-provisional of and claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/160,214 filed on May 12,2015, and entitled “Attachment System for Adhesion of Absorbent Towelsto Exercise Mats/Work Pads”, which is incorporated herein by referencein its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to attachment mechanisms foran absorbent cover for an exercise mat.

BACKGROUND

The popularity of body weight exercises that combine strength,flexibility, and coordination has rapidly grown over the last decade.Traditional sports such as running, cycling, resistance training, andswimming have long been common forms of exercise. More recently,however, people wanting to stay in shape have embraced a morecross-functional means to achieve and maintain a desired level offitness that combines physical as well as mental health, choosing toincorporate flexibility and mindfulness as a quintessential aspect oftheir training regimen.

For example, yoga and Pilates, which incorporate aspects of physical andmental health training, are rapidly growing in popularity. The physicalbenefits of yoga are known to increase strength and flexibility. Themental benefits of yoga include relaxing the mind through breathingexercises while holding certain physically demanding poses. As a result,people participating in such activities on a regular basis can benefitfrom increased strength, flexibility, mental wellness, and balance.Various forms of Pilates and most forms of yoga utilize mats, whichprovide a soft surface for the various poses.

During such activities, the physical demand of balancing while holdingvarious poses for minutes at a time, can cause participants to perspireonto the mats, causing the mats to become slippery, which can increasethe likelihood of injury. Since the mats are generally non-absorbent,participants often lay absorbent towels over the mat to reduce the riskof falling from slipping.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a system may include an absorbent cover for anexercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from aliquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms may be affixed to theabsorbent cover engage with corresponding attachment mechanisms affixedto the exercise mat to releasably secure the absorbent cover to theexercise mat.

In other embodiments, a system may include an exercise mat that can beformed at least partially from a cushioning material. The exercise matmay include at least one attachment mechanism configured to engagecorresponding attachment mechanisms affixed to an absorbent cover tosecure the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

In still other embodiments, a method for attaching an absorbent cover toa mat may include affixing first attachment mechanisms to the absorbentcover. The method may also include affixing second attachment mechanismsto the mat. The method may further include coupling the first attachmentmechanisms to the second attachment mechanisms to releasably secure theabsorbent cover to the mat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this disclosure, both with respect to thestructure and operation of the mat and corresponding cover, can best beunderstood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying description, in which reference characters may be re-usedto refer to similar parts.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent covercoupled to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordancewith certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1A, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbentcover that may be coupled to a mat by a plurality of attachmentmechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of an apparatus including a mat may beattached to an absorbent cover by a plurality of attachment mechanisms,in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover thatmay be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a diagram of the engagement of attachment mechanisms of FIG.4A, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a magnetic snap type of attachment mechanism, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover thatmay be attached to a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an apparatus including a mat and an absorbentcover, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover and amat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbentcover and a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams of an apparatus including coversand mats, in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover thatmay be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 depicts a flow diagram of a method of forming an apparatus, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the following discussion, the same reference numbers are used in thevarious embodiments to indicate the same or similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In some embodiments, an absorbent cover may include one or moreattachment mechanisms that may be configured to engage correspondingattachment mechanisms of a mat. In an example, the absorbent cover canbe removably attached to the mat by one or more attachment mechanismsduring use such that the absorbent cover absorbs perspiration and isheld in place by the attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover may be decoupled from the mat, for example, to wash theabsorbent Cover.

In some embodiments, the absorbent cover and mat can have the same orsimilar size and shape. In some embodiments, one or more attachmentmechanisms can be affixed to the absorbent cover and can be positionedto be substantially aligned with the positions of correspondingattachment features or mechanisms affixed to the mat. When brought intoproximity or contact, the attachment mechanisms of the absorbent coverand mat may automatically engage to secure the absorbent cover to themat. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be permanentlyaffixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or any combination thereof. Inother embodiments, some or all of the attachment mechanisms may beremovably or temporarily affixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or anycombination thereof.

Examples of attachment mechanisms may include, but are not limited to,riveted snaps, riveted magnetic snaps, sewn buttons, sewn snaps, sewnmagnetic snaps, hook and eye fabric, magnetic strips, metal/magnetrivets, zippers, other elements, or any combination thereof. In someembodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be located at a plurality ofpoints around the edge of the absorbent cover and mat. For example, oneor more attachment mechanisms may be coupled to the mat andcorresponding attachment mechanisms may be coupled to correspondinglocations about the periphery or edges of the absorbent cover. Theattachment mechanisms on the absorbent cover may engage correspondingattachment mechanisms associated with the mat to releasably secure thecover to the mat. An example of an apparatus including an absorbentcover coupled to a mat is described below with respect to FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an apparatus 100 including an absorbent cover102 coupled to a mat 104 in an unrolled configuration on a supportingsurface, such as the ground or floor 106. The absorbent cover 102includes a first side (side A 108) and a second side (side B 110). Themat includes 104 a first side (side A 112) and a second side (side B114). In the illustrated view, the absorbent cover 102 includesattachment mechanisms 116 and 118 positioned adjacent to the second side(side B) 110, and the mat 104 includes attachment mechanisms 120 and 122positioned adjacent to the first side (side A) 112. The attachmentmechanisms 116 and 118 may be affixed or secured, at least in part tothe second side (side B) 110 of the absorbent cover 102 and configuredto align with and couple to the attachment mechanisms 120 and 122,respectively, which can be affixed or secured at least in part to side A112 of the mat 104.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 associatedwith the absorbent cover 102 may be aligned with the attachmentmechanisms 120 and 122 of the mat 104. The attachment mechanisms 120 and122 may be magnetic, while the attachment mechanisms 116 and 118 may beformed from metal. The magnetic fields provided by the attachmentmechanism 120 and 122 may attract the attachment mechanism 116 and 118to secure and align the absorbent cover 102 to the mat 104. In addition,such an embodiment may allow for thorough cleaning of the absorbentcover 102, for example, when machine washed. In contrast, if attachmentmechanisms 116 and 118 are magnets, the magnets may attach to the drumof a washing machine. In such a case, the absorbent cover 102 may beprevented from turning in the wash so that the absorbent cover 102 maynot be as thoroughly cleaned.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the apparatus 100 before the absorbentcover 102 is coupled to the mat 104. In addition to the attachmentmechanisms 116-120 in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B depicts additional attachmentmechanisms 124 and 126 on the absorbent cover 102 and attachmentmechanisms 128 and 130 on the mat 104. As illustrated, the attachmentmechanisms 116, 118, 124, and 126 on side B 110 of the absorbent cover102 can couple to the attachment mechanisms 120, 122, 128, and 130 onside A 112 of the mat 104 when the absorbent cover 102 is placed on topof the mat 104.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 1B, the absorbent cover 102 may becoupled to the surface of side A 112 of the mat 104, which may beimpermeable to water. In some embodiments, the mat 104 may be a yogamat, other sports mat, or work pad such as those including closed oropen-cell foam, for use during yoga, Pilates, or other sportingexercises or stretches. Further, the surface 106 can be any type offlooring material, a table or other furniture, the ground, or any othertype of supporting surface.

The dimensions of the absorbent cover 102 may vary. The absorbent cover102 may be sized to be substantially similar to the surface to which theabsorbent cover 102 is to be attached. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover 102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four(24) inches by sixty-eight (68) inches, which may be the approximatedimensions of a standard-sized yoga mat. Additionally, the absorbentcover 102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inchesby seventy-two (72) inches or approximately twenty-six (26) inches byseventy-two (72) inches, which are the approximate dimensions ofextra-long yoga mats and some premium yoga mats, respectively. However,the absorbent cover 102 may have dimensions that are larger or smallerthan these types of yoga mats and may have dimensions selected to fitother sizes of mats. For example, the absorbent cover 102 can be sizedfor use as a washcloth, a hand towel, a beach towel, a bath towel, abath mat, a dish towel, a gym towel, a golf towel or other sport towel,a drop cloth, a throw rug, a baby-changing mat, another type of towel,or any combination thereof.

Further, although the absorbent cover 102 is discussed herein in thecontext of a non-clothing item, the absorbent cover 102 may be used inother applications where absorbency is beneficial. For example, theabsorbent cover 102 may be incorporated into or manufactured for use asclothing, such as a bathrobe, a shirt, pants, a hat, a scarf, socks, orany other suitable clothing or non-clothing item. With this design, anymoisture such as perspiration, precipitation or incidental moisture canbe absorbed b the absorbent cover 102.

The absorbent cover 102 may be formed from relatively absorbentmaterials that can vary from implementation to implementation. Forinstance, the absorbent cover 102 may include any absorbent naturalfibers or fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool, hemp, other naturalmaterials, or any combination thereof. Further, the absorbent cover 102may include synthetic materials such as acrylics, polyester, microfiber,nylon, rayon, other materials, or any combination thereof. Themicrofiber material can be made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g.,nylon, Kevlar, Nomex, trogamide), or a combination of polyester,polyamide, polypropylene (Prolen), other material, or any combinationthereof. The shape, size, and combinations of synthetic fibers can beselected for specific characteristics, including softness, toughness,absorption, water repellency, and so on. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover 102 may include both synthetic materials and naturalmaterials.

Further, the absorbent cover 102 may have a wide range of thicknesses,weights, and densities depending upon the desired absorbency andintended usage of the absorbent cover 102. The absorbent cover 102 mayalso include different colored materials as well as different colorpatterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of exampleappearances of the absorbent cover 102 is provided below with regard toFIGS. 2A and 2B.

The dimensions of the mat 104 may vary. In some embodiments, the mat 104may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches bysixty-eight (68) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of astandard sized yoga mat. Additionally, the mat 104 may have dimensionsof approximately twenty-four (24) inches by seventy-two (72) inches orapproximately twenty-six (26) inches by seventy-two (72) inches, whichare the approximate dimensions of extra-long yoga mats and some premiumyoga mats, respectively. In some examples, the mat 104 may have othersizes, which may be larger or smaller than these types of yoga mats ormay be sized for other types of mats. The mat 104 may be sized to besubstantially similar to the surface upon which the mat 104 is placed ormay be sized based on various other considerations. For example, the mat104 can be sized for use with a gym pad, Pilates mat, mechanic's workmat, kitchen mat, a baby changing mat, or another type of mat.

The mat 104 may be formed from relatively non-absorbent materialsdepending on the implementation. For instance, the mat 104 can includeany material with cushioning properties such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC)foam, nibber, cork, polyurethane, latex, other material, or anycombination of suitable materials, as non-limiting examples. Further,the mat 104 can have a wide range of thicknesses, weights and densitiesdepending upon the amount of cushioning desired and the intended usage.The mat 104 can also include different colored materials, differentcolored patterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of exampleappearances of the mat 104 is provided below with regard to FIGS. 3A and3B

Embodiments are not limited to the illustrated system. For example, theabsorbent cover 102 and mat 104 may be reversible and each may includeattachment mechanisms on both side A and side B. In another example, theattachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover 102 and mat104 such that one or more portions of the attachment mechanisms arevisible on both sides of absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 (e.g. affixedby rivets that pierce through absorbent cover 102 or the mat 104).Moreover, while the embodiments illustrated and described herein showthe absorbent cover 102 and mat 104 being coupled by the attachmentmechanisms around the perimeter edge of the absorbent cover 102 and mat104, embodiments are not so limited. In addition, attachment mechanismsutilized in embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein are notlimited to those listed. Rather, embodiments according to thisdisclosure may utilize any attachment mechanism known to one of ordinaryskill in the art for securing the cover 102 to the mat 104.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of apparatuses 200 and 210 in whichabsorbent covers 202 and 212 may be attached to a mat by a plurality ofattachment mechanisms. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments in whichsides A 204 and 214 of the absorbent covers 202 and 212 include focalregions 206 and 216, respectively. In some embodiments, the focalregions 206 and 216 may be related to the usage of the mat to which theabsorbent cover is to be attached. As illustrated, focal regions 206 and216 may have a color, geometric shape, or pattern that is different fromother portions of the absorbent covers 202 and 212. With this design, anindividual performing yoga, martial arts or other sporting activitiescan focus his or her attention on the focal region to assist withconcentration and focus during participation in such exercises. Thefocal regions 206 and 216 may be formed from the same material used toform the remainder of the absorbent cover, or the focal regions 206 and216 can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 2A, the focal region 206 is a circle;however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand printindicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for anintended exercise. In some examples, the focal region 206 may be sizedsmall enough to allow the user to focus on the focal region 206 withoutsubstantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example,the focal region 206 can be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0centimeters in diameter. However, the focal region 206 may be of varioussizes and located at various positions on the absorbent cover.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 2B, the focal region 216 includes aconfiguration of lines and a geometric shape. In some embodiments, focalregion 216 and similar focal regions may allow the user to focus onproper alignment of the feet and hands during exercise withoutsubstantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. However, thesize and relative location of the focal region 216 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the focal regions 206and 216 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular,linear, oval, or another geometric shape). Further, various shapes,patterns and colors may be used in combination to help to capture theuser's focus when exercising or stretching.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of apparatuses 300 and 310 in which mats302 and 312 may be attached to an absorbent cover by a plurality ofattachment mechanisms. In this example, sides A 304 and 314 of the mats302 and 312, respectively, include focal regions 306 and 316. In someembodiments, the focal regions 306 and 316 may be related to the usageof the mat. As illustrated, the focal regions 306 and 316 may have acolor, geometric shape, or pattern that is different from other portionsof the mats 302 and 312. With this design, an individual performingyoga, martial arts or other sporting or stretching activities can focushis or her attention on the focal regions 306 and 316 to assist withconcentration or focus during participation in such exercises. The focalregions 306 and 316 can be formed from the same material used to formthe remainder of the mats 302 and 312, or the focal regions 306 and 316can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 3A, the focal region 306 is a circle;however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand printindicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for anintended exercise. In some example, the focal region 306 may be sizedsmall enough to allow the user to focus on the focal region 306 withoutsubstantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example,the focal region 306 may be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0centimeters in diameter. However, the focal region 306 may be of varioussizes and located at various positions on the mat 302.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 3B, the focal region 316 is aconfiguration of lines. In some embodiments, focal region 316 andsimilar focal regions may allow the user to focus on proper alignment ofthe feet and hands during exercise without substantial movement of theuser's eyes during exercise. However, the size and relative location ofthe focal region 316 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the focal regions 306and 316 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular,linear, oval or another geometric shape).

FIGS. 4A-8 illustrate example configurations of attachment mechanisms.The type, positioning, shape and size of the attachment mechanisms canvary from implementation to implementation. Further, the material(s)used for the attachment mechanisms may vary. For example, in someembodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be formed from asubstantially non-absorbent material such as, but not limited to,various forms of hard plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, magneticmaterials, hook and loop fabric, and polyamide materials. Thematerial(s) used to form the attachment mechanisms can have a relativelyhigh coefficient of static friction, such that the attachment mechanismsinhibit relative movement when the attachment mechanisms are engaged.More particularly, the coefficient of static friction between attachmentmechanisms may be greater than a coefficient of static friction betweenof the absorbent cover and mat The relatively high static friction ofthe attachment mechanisms may decrease the likelihood that the absorbentcover willslip, slide or otherwise move relative to the surface of themat upon which the absorbent cover is positioned. Stated another way,the attachment mechanisms may secure the absorbent cover relative to thesurface of the mat.

FIG. 4A is a diagram of an apparatus 400 including an absorbent cover402 that may be coupled to a mat 404 using a plurality of attachmentmechanisms. The attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 can be positionedadjacent to the edge of side B 406 of the absorbent cover 402 and theedge of side A 408 of the mat 404. In some examples, the attachmentmechanisms 410 and 412 may be positioned in a pattern. For example, eachcorner of the absorbent cover 402 and each corner of the mat 404 mayinclude an attachment mechanism 410 and 412 and each edge of theabsorbent cover 402 and the mat 404 may include attachment mechanisms.In some examples, at least one attachment mechanism may be provided atthe midpoint along each edge. In the illustrated example, the absorbentcover 402 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g., 410(1)-410(8)) andthe mat 404 includes eight corresponding attachment mechanisms (e.g.,412(1)-412(8)).

FIG. 4A also illustrates an expanded view of the attachment mechanisms410(3) and 412(3). In particular, the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412are illustrated as male and female magnetic snaps, respectivelyparticular, the protrusion 414 present on a male attachment mechanism410 engages the recess 416 of a female attachment mechanism 412. Oncethe protrusion 414 engages the recess 416, the attachment mechanisms410(3) magnetically couples to the attachment mechanism 412(3) toreleasably secure the absorbent cover 402 to the mat 404. FIG. 4Billustrates the engagement of attachment mechanisms 410 with attachmentmechanisms 412.

The magnetic properties of the attachment mechanisms may vary fromimplementation to implementation. For example, in some embodiments, bothattachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may be magnets. In other embodiments,one of the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may be a magnet and theother may be formed from a material that is attracted to magnets (e.g.ferromagnetic material) but that is not necessarily magnetized. In otherembodiments, the attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 may include variouscombinations of magnets and non-magnets.

Moreover, embodiments are not limited to a particular style ofattachment mechanism. FIGS. 5A and 5B depict another magnetic snap typeof attachment mechanism, in accordance with certain embodiments of thepresent disclosure. The illustrated attachment mechanisms 502 and 504are similar to the magnetic snaps 410 and 412 of FIG. 4 but, instead ofincluding a substantially squared protrusion and a correspondinglysquared recess, the protrusion 506 and a recess 508 of the attachmentmechanisms 502 and 504 are slanted or angled. As used herein, slanted isused to encompass protrusions and recesses that are conical, pyramidal,rounded, substantially or near conical, pyramidal or rounded, andsimilar shapes. For example, as used herein, slanted would encompass aprotrusion that is substantially conical but which has a flat tip butwould not include cube or cylindrical shaped protrusion and recesses.FIG. 5B illustrates the engagement of attachment mechanism 502 withattachment mechanism 504. In particular, the protrusion 506 present onthe male attachment mechanism 502 engages the recess 508 of the femaleattachment mechanism 504.

In some embodiments, the slanted design of the protrusion 506 present onthe male attachment mechanism 502 and the recess 508 of the femaleattachment mechanism 504 may be quicker and easier to engage incomparison to attachment mechanisms 410 and 412 of FIG. 4. For example,if misaligned, the magnetic attraction between attachment mechanisms 502and 504 may be more likely to cause the attachment mechanisms 502 and504 to automatically slide into a correct alignment than the magneticattraction between attachment mechanisms 410 and 412.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an apparatus 600 including an absorbent cover 602that may be attached to a mat 604 using continuous attachmentmechanisms. In the illustrated example, the attachment mechanisms 610and 612 are positioned around the edge of side B 606 of the absorbentcover 602 and the edge of side A 608 of the mat 604. In a particularexample, the attachment mechanisms 610 and 612 may be magnetic stripsthat are sewn or riveted to the absorbent cover 602 or mat 604.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an apparatus 700 including an absorbent cover 702that may be attached to a mat 704 using a plurality of attachmentmechanisms. The illustrated example of FIG. 7 is similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 4. For example, the attachment mechanisms 710 arepositioned around the edge of side B 706 of the absorbent cover 702 andthe attachment mechanisms 712 are positioned around the edge of side A708 of the mat 704. However, the implementation of FIG. 7 includesadditional attachment mechanisms along the longest edges of theabsorbent cover 702 and mat 704. As would be apparent to one of ordinaryskill in the art in view of this disclosure, various otherconfigurations and patterns for placement of attachment mechanisms maybe utilized.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of an apparatus 800 including an absorbent cover 802that may be attached to a mat 804 using multiple types of attachmentmechanisms. In particular, the attachment mechanisms 810 and 814 arediscontinuous attachment mechanisms that are positioned around the edgesof side B 806 of the absorbent cover 802 and side A 808 of the mat 804and the attachment mechanisms 812 and 816 are continuous attachmentmechanisms that are positioned around the edges of side B 806 of theabsorbent cover 802 and side A 808 of the mat 804.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the matand absorbent cover directly, such as by using a riveting method, whichcan include riveting magnetic snaps or mechanisms into position on themat and absorbent cover.

FIGS. 9A and 913 illustrate views 900 and 920 of an apparatus in whichattachment mechanisms are affixed directly to an absorbent cover 902 anda mat 904 using, as an example, riveting. In the illustrated view 900,the attachment mechanism to be affixed to the absorbent cover 902 isinitially two pieces, an attachment mechanism back with a rivet stem 906and an attachment mechanism with a rivet cap 908. Similarly, theattachment mechanism to be affixed to the mat 904 is initially twopieces, an attachment mechanism with a rivet stem 910 and an attachmentmechanism back with a rivet cap 912. As depicted in view 920 of FIG. 9B,the attachment mechanisms are affixed to the absorbent cover 902 and mat904 through a riveting process (e.g., pressing the rivet stem throughthe absorbent cover 902 or mat 904 and into the rivet cap to rivet thepieces together).

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to theabsorbent cover or mat indirectly, such as by affixing the attachmentmechanisms to pieces of material and then affixing the pieces ormaterial to the absorbent cover or mat. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover may be formed from multiple layers of the same ordifferent materials.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate views 1000, 1020 and 1040 of anapparatus in which attachment mechanisms are indirectly affixed to anabsorbent cover and a mat. More particularly, views 1000, 1020 and 1040depict the affixing of attachment mechanisms to pieces of fabric 1002and 1004 and then affixing the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 to anabsorbent cover 1006 and a mat 1008. As depicted in view 1000, theattachment mechanism to be affixed to the absorbent cover 1006 isinitially two pieces, an attachment mechanism back with a rivet stem1010 and an attachment mechanism with a rivet cap 1012. Similarly, theattachment mechanism to be affixed to the mat 1008 is initially twopieces, an attachment mechanism with a rivet stem 1014 and an attachmentmechanism back with a rivet cap 1016. As shown in view 1020, theattachment mechanisms are affixed to the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004through a riveting process (e.g., pressing the rivet stem through thepieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 and into the rivet cap to rivet thepieces together). As shown in view 1040, the attachment mechanisms arethen indirectly affixed to the absorbent cover 1006 and the mat 1008 by,for example, sewing the pieces of fabric 1002 and 1004 to the absorbentcover 1006 and the mat 1008, respectively. While discussed in thecontext of pieces of fabric that are sewn to the absorbent cover 1006and the mat 1008, the items 1002 and 1004 are not so limited, andvarious other materials may be used.

Examples of alternative methods that may be used to affix the attachmentmechanisms or intermediary pieces of material to the mat and absorbentcover include but are not limited to riveting, screwing, sewing,chemical bonding, adhesive, or any other manner that would be understoodby one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure. Forexample, in some embodiments, screws may be used to affix the attachmentmechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover. In another example, a bolt andnut type fastener arrangement may be used to affix the attachmentmechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover instead of, or in combinationwith, riveting.

In addition, the riveting method depicted in FIGS. 9A-10C may be variedand other types of rivets may be used. For example, while items 906,910, 1010 and 1014 are illustrated as having rivet stems and items 908,912, 1012 and 1016 are illustrated as having rivet caps, is thestructure is not so limited. For example, the items 906, 910, 1010 and1014 and the items 908, 912, 1012, and 1016 may be switched. Further,other combinations of rivet stems, rivet caps, threaded attachments, orother connectable structures may be used.

FIG. 11 illustrates a diagram of an apparatus 1100 including anabsorbent cover 1102 that may be coupled to a mat 1104 using a pluralityof attachment mechanisms, including attachment mechanisms affixed to asleeve 1106 into which the mat 1104 may be inserted. The attachmentmechanisms 1112 and 1114 can be positioned adjacent to the edge of sideB 1108 of the absorbent cover 1102 and the edge of side A 1110 of thesleeve 1106. In some examples, the attachment mechanisms 1112 on theabsorbent cover 1102 may be arranged in a pattern, and attachmentmechanisms 1114 attached to the sleeve 1106 may be arranged in acorresponding pattern. For example, each corner of the absorbent cover1102 and each corner of the sleeve 1110 may include an attachmentmechanism 1112 and 1114, respectively and each edge of the absorbentcover 1102 and the sleeve 1106 may include attachment mechanisms 1112and 1114, respectively. In some examples, at least one attachmentmechanism may be provided at the midpoint along each edge of both theabsorbent cover 1102 and the sleeve 1106. In the illustrated example,the absorbent cover 1102 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g.,1112(1)-1112(8)) and the sleeve 1106 includes eight correspondingattachment mechanisms e.g., 1114(1)-1114(8)).

While the example depicted in FIG. 11 includes a sleeve 1106 that coversthe entirety of the mat 1106, the disclosure is not so limited. Forexample, instead of a sleeve 1106, the may 1104 may be fitted with aform fitting edge cover in the shape of the mat 1104 may be provide thatmay include the attachment mechanisms. In another example, attachmentmechanisms may be affixed to pockets of a cover, which may be formedfrom fabric. The corners of the mat may be inserted into the pockets,and the pockets may be secured to the mat, for example, by elasticstraps, snaps, or other fasteners (such as ties) that can secure thepockets to the mat. In some examples, a tie may be provided at amidpoint along an edge of the mat to secure the cover to the mat. Theseand many other variations are possible.

The positioning, type and number of attachment mechanisms may vary toachieve a desired level of restriction of movement between the absorbentcover and the mat (e.g., be continuous, discontinuous or a combinationof continuous and discontinuous). For example, the attachment mechanismsmay run in a continuous or semi-continuous pattern on the mat andabsorbent cover. If the attachment mechanisms are positioned relativelyclose to one another while not unduly inhibiting moisture absorption bythe absorbent cover, there is less chance for the absorbent cover tomove (e.g., less movement between the absorbent cover relative to themat). Consequently, in some embodiments, injuries caused by slippage ofthe absorbent cover relative to the mat are reduced.

Additionally, embodiments are not limited to those in which thepositioning of attachment mechanisms follows a pattern or to those inwhich each attachment mechanism of the absorbent cover is matched to acorresponding attachment mechanism of the mat. For example, theattachment mechanisms may be positioned in a substantially random manneron the absorbent cover and mat. In another example, different types orstyles of attachment mechanisms may be engaged to attach the absorbentcover to the mat. For example, in some embodiments, magnetic snaps onthe absorbent cover may engage continuous or discontinuous magneticstrips on the mat.

FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram of a method 1200 of forming the absorbentcovers and mats of FIGS. 1-11. The process is illustrated as acollection of blocks in a logical flow diagram, which represent asequence of operations. The order in which the operations are describedshould not be construed as a limitation. Any number of the describedblocks can be combined in any order or in parallel to implement theprocess, or alternative processes, and not all of the blocks need beexecuted. For discussion purposes, the processes herein are describedwith reference to the frameworks, architectures and environmentsdescribed in the examples herein, although the processes may beimplemented in a wide variety of other frameworks, architectures orenvironments.

At 1202, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the absorbentcover. This may be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one ormore attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover, for example, in themanners described above. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanismmay be directly attached to the absorbent cover, for example, bycoupling a rivet cap to a rivet stem through the absorbent cover. Inother embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be indirectly attachedby coupling the one or more attachment mechanisms to a first layer ofthe absorbent cover and by coupling the first layer to another layer ofthe absorbent cover.

At 1204, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the mat. Thismay be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one or moreattachment mechanisms to the mat. Items 1202 and 1204 may be performedsuch that, when the absorbent cover is positioned on top of the mat, theattachment mechanisms align. At 1206, the attachment mechanisms of theabsorbent cover are coupled with the attachment mechanisms of the mat.

While the embodiments disclosed above with respect to FIGS. 1-12describe particular illustrative embodiments, some embodiments may becombined or may include at least some variations. For example, the sizeof the attachment and the distance that each part of the attachmentmechanism projects or extends away from the absorbent cover and mat mayvary. In another example, the absorbent cover or mat can also include astrap that is removably or fixedly attached to the absorbent cover ormat. The strap can be attached to the absorbent cover or mat by anysuitable means, including loop and pile, hook and loop, snaps, stitches,adhesive, other means, or any combination thereof.

Alternatively, the strap can be tied around the absorbent cover or matto maintain the mat or absorbent cover in the rolled-up configuration.The strap can include a handle for carrying or otherwise transportingthe absorbent cover or mat between locations. Further, the strap can beused for maintaining the absorbent cover or mat in the second, rolled upconfiguration, e.g. for storage, until the mat or absorbent cover isready for use. These and many other variations are possible.

Although the present invention has been described with reference topreferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the scopeof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: an absorbent coverincluding a liquid absorbing material; and one or more attachmentmechanisms formed from metal and coupled to the absorbent cover andconfigured to mate with corresponding magnets associated with a mat toreleasably secure the absorbent cover to the mat.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein each of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes:a first portion including a first side having a substantially smoothsurface and including a second side having a fastening mechanism; and asecond portion including a first side configured to engage the fasteningmechanism to secure the attachment mechanism to the absorbent cover andincluding a second side including at least one of a recessed surface anda raised surface configured to engage a corresponding feature of atleast one of the corresponding magnets.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the first portion and the second portion form a rivet extendingthrough the absorbent cover.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein atleast one of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes at least oneof steel and aluminum.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprisingthe mat formed from a flexible material and including the correspondingmagnets.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the absorbent coverincludes length and width dimensions that are substantially equal tothose of the mat.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the absorbentcover includes a microfiber material selected to have fibers configuredto absorb moisture.
 8. A apparatus comprising: an absorbent cover; a matat least partially formed from a cushioning material, the mat includinga first side and including a second side configured to engage asupporting surface during use; and one or more first attachmentmechanisms affixed to at least the first side of the mat, the one ormore first attachment mechanisms configured to secure the absorbentcover to the mat.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein at least one of theone or more first attachment mechanisms is riveted to the mat.
 10. Theapparatus of claim 8, wherein the absorbent cover includes one or moresecond attachment mechanisms configured to couple to the firstattachment mechanisms to secure the absorbent cover to the mat.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein at least one of the one or more firstattachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material and is configuredto couple magnetically to one of the one or more second attachmentmechanisms.
 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein: at least one of theone or more first attachment mechanisms includes a first material: atleast one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms includes asecond material; and the first material includes at least one of a hookmaterial and a loop material, and the second material includes at leastone of the loop material and the hook material.
 13. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein: at least one of the one or more first attachmentmechanisms includes a magnetized material; and wherein the absorbentcover includes one or more second attachment mechanisms including ametal and configured to couple to the one or more first attachmentmechanisms.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein: the at least onefirst attachment mechanism includes a slanted protrusion; and the one ormore second attachment mechanisms include a slanted recess configured tomate with the slanted protrusion of the at least one first attachmentmechanism; and a magnetic force of the at least one first attachment andthe slanted recess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or moresecond attachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachmentmechanism.
 15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein: at least one of theone or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized materialand includes a slanted recess; and the one or more second attachmentmechanisms include a slanted protrusion configured to mate with theslanted recess of the at least one first attachment mechanism; and amagnetic force of the at least one first attachment and the slantedrecess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or more secondattachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachment mechanism 16.A method of attaching an absorbent cover to a mat, the methodcomprising: coupling one or more first attachment mechanisms to theabsorbent cover, the one or more first attachment mechanisms includingmetal; coupling one or more second attachment mechanisms to the mat, theone or more second attachment mechanism including a magnetic material;and selectively aligning the one or more first attachment mechanismswith the one or more second attachment mechanisms to establish amagnetic coupling.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein before couplingthe one or more first attachment mechanisms, the method furthercomprising forming the absorbent cover and the mat to have substantiallyequal length and width dimensions.
 18. The method of claim 16, whereincoupling the one or more first and second attachment mechanismsincludes: coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of a first attachmentrivet through the absorbent cover to form one of the one or more firstattachment mechanisms; and coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of asecond attachment rivet through the mat to form one of the one or moresecond attachment mechanisms.
 19. The method of claim 16, whereincoupling the one or more first attachment mechanisms to the absorbentcover includes: coupling a first portion and a second portions of aselected one of the first attachment mechanisms through a piece ofmaterial to form the first attachment mechanisms; and coupling the pieceof material to an absorbent layer to form the absorbent cover.
 20. Themethod of claim 16, wherein coupling the piece of material to theabsorbent cover includes sewing the piece of material to the absorbentcover.